Western Conference Breakdown

There is really only one team in the West that can challenge the World Champions, The San Antonio Spurs. All other competitors in the West are not even worth uttering in the same breath with the Lake Show.

If the Spurs can maintain a healthy Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, and Tony Parker, they will be solid. The addition of Richard Jefferson will reap dividends. They have many of the same bench players returning as well. I expect them to challenge the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference Finals. By “Challenge,” I mean the Lakers will win in 6 games.

Here’s a peak at how the West will shake out for the playoffs:
1. Los Angeles Lakers
2. San Antonio Spurs
3. Denver Nuggets
4. Utah Jazz
5. Dallas Mavericks
6. Portland Trailblazers
7. New Orleans Hornets
8. Phoenix Suns

Lo Siento: Houston Rockets lost Yao Ming and Ron Artest…I’m not counting them out though, Houston could sneak in if the Suns continue their downward spiral.

Sleeper: The Los Angeles Clippers…With Blake Griffin and a healthy Baron Davis, this squad could be the NBA’s most improved team.